One of the classic ways to carry your EDC tools is on your keychain. It makes sense, since you likely carry your keys with you all (or most) of the time anyway. There’s a whole world of keychain sized tools out there; everything from flashlights, to pens, pry bars, and of course knives.
I have carried a full keychain EDC before, but don’t currently. I find that it becomes cumbersome quickly, and isn’t such a great look to have a big tangle of metal clinking and swinging around. Still, I do keep a few things other than keys on my keychain:
Barlow Bearcat Club Copper Coin
Rough Ryder Cross Slipjoint (bone scales removed)
Apple AirTag
I used a simple dangler hook for years, but recently have been using a Nite Ize G-Series clip.
That said, I do have two keychain kits setup currently. One I keep on my backpack (… sometimes) and the other I keep next to my door at home. Do I use them much? No, but it’s fun to put together intentional setups and can be useful to have them around.
Left (black) setup:
Olight iMini 2
Mini Sharpie
Spyderco Manbug Leaf
Nextool Mini Sailor Lite
Right (silver, USA made) setup:
Christy Companion
Maratac Widgy Pry Bar
TEC Accessories PicoPen
MagLite Solitaire LED
ASP Palm Defender
Do you carry a knife or any other EDC tools on your keychain?
I remember when orange was the cool color in the EDC community. Everything came in various shades of orange, and people posted matching carries with knife, flashlight, pen, pouch, and trinkets all in orange. Not to say orange has exited the zeitgeist of EDC entirely, but the community seems to have in some ways moved on. Not me! I still enjoy throwing a bunch of orange stuff in my pockets often, and have been carrying some this week. Namely:
Hinderer XM-18 3.5 Skinny Slicer
Everyday Kara’s Basik 004 All Hallows Eve
Katahdin Packs Small Accessory Pouch
Now, while I have carried my orange GEC #71 Bullnose a bit, I’ve mostly carried two traditional knives gifted to me by fellow Barlow Bearcats. I’ve been thoroughly enjoying both the Great Eastern Cutlery Gunstock Jack SFO #25 Watch Pocket Barlow (thanks Austin!) and GEC made Waynorth Bison Belly (thanks Charlie!); they’re not orange, but they sure are classics! I also don’t have an orange flashlight currently and, truth be told, don’t carry one that often.
Do you coordinate what tools you carry? If so, how?
I carried my ProTech Godfather leading up to and some of this past week. It’s a long and mean looking out the side automatic. It has a classic design that just looks stellar, with a coffin-esque handle and a dagger style blade. The action is incredible; it thwacks out with authority. That’s all said, it has a relatively thickly ground blade and a needle point tip. I got it as a gift to myself for hitting a big personal milestone, so it also holds sentimental value for me. It might not be the most utilitarian knife in my collection, but it sure is one of the coolest.
Jack Wolf Knives Timber Jack Review
It’s exciting to see custom knife makers like Tracy LaRock working with Jack Wolf Knives. As the largest slipjoint from JWK so far, the Timber Jack comes with a hefty blade and a sturdy spring. No surprise, being a Jack Wolf Knife, it is made superbly. Check out my review video below.
Barn and Brook Feather Knife Review
You can’t beat a handmade in the USA fixed blade with a unique design for ~$75. Is it the most practical knife out there? No, but sometimes practicality isn’t the point. Check out my video on the Barn and Brook Feather Knife below.
Civivi Sendy Slippy & Sencut Sylor Review
The Sendy Slippy is an interesting take on a modern slipjoint. I like the design, but it could use a stronger spring for sure. The Sylor is another high value per dollar knife from Sencut. Check out my video on them below.
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Traditional knives and fountain pens have seen a resurgence in recent years, both among collectors and everyday users. At first glance, that resurgence is hard to explain. These tools are slower, more demanding, and less convenient than the modern alternatives designed to replace them. Traditional knives usually require two hands to open, are frequently made from maintenance heavy carbon steel, and often don’t include a locking mechanism. Fountain pens require frequent cleaning, prefer certain kinds of paper, and demand more technique to write well.
Why Choose Traditional Knives and Fountain Pens?
Given all of that, why do I and many others still use, collect, and enjoy them? Because both traditional knives and fountain pens place an emphasis on intentionality that modern tools tend to lack.
Modern vs Traditional
How do Traditional Knives and Fountain Pens Emphasize Intentionality?
All of the extra work these “archaic” tools require forces the user to be more present in their use. A modern knife, with its pocket clip, lock, and one hand operation can be pulled out, opened, used, and closed almost without a thought. A traditional knife asks more of you. You have to find it in your pocket, maybe remove it from a slip, use both hands to open it, cut with care so it doesn’t close on you, clean it, and then usually use two hands to close it again.
The same contrast exists with pens. Many modern pens are clipped, clickable, and instantly ready to write, using forgiving ballpoint tips and easily replaceable refills. Fountain pens usually require a cap to be removed, must be held at the correct angle and orientation, often involve a more laborious filling process, and need regular cleaning.
Each step slows the process just enough to pull your attention into it, bringing focus to the act itself in a way not unlike a mindfulness practice. Choosing traditional knives and fountain pens turns simple use into active participation.
Jinhao 9016, Cooper Cutlery NYKC Barlow, & Side Notes Notebook Cover
Why Take Intentionality Over Practicality?
The truth is that most of us do not actually need a knife or a pen on our person at all times. For many of us, carrying these tools is already a choice driven less by necessity and more by enjoyment. Once that is acknowledged, the question shifts. If we are already choosing not strictly for utility, why not choose tools that invite deeper engagement?
Traditional knives and fountain pens introduce friction into actions that modern tools have worked hard to eliminate. That friction is not efficient, but it is meaningful. It asks us to slow down, to pay attention, and to participate in the act rather than merely “get it out of the way”.
In a world optimized for speed, convenience, and disposability, choosing tools that require care to use and maintain can be a subtle but intentional detour from the mundane. Tools that foster intentionality do not just perform a function, they create a moment. Over time, those moments add texture to daily life, turning routine actions into small rituals instead of forgettable tasks.
Traditional knives and fountain pens remind us that not every action needs to be optimized; some are worth experiencing fully.
Even with modern materials or construction, traditional knives and fountain pens maintain class
Pen Ponderings Youtube Playlist
If you enjoy content on knives or pens, you should check out my YouTube channel. I recently created a playlist specifically for videos on pens, which I’ve called “Pen Ponderings”, linked below.
Two well used tools that belonged to my Grandfather
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If you search for bolt action pens, Tactile Turn will inevitably be one of the most discussed and recommended brands you find. They are made in the USA, have a great reputation for quality, and offer their unique namesake machined finish. However, when I tried to decide which model to choose, I found that comparison reviews were surprisingly scarce… so I’ve written this article (plus long form review and short comparison videos) to provide just that; a thorough review and comparison of Tactile Turn’s bolt action pens. Read on to learn about the different lengths, widths, and materials Tactile Turn offers.
In this Tactile Turn Bolt Action Pen Comparison Review
TL;DR? Short Tactile Turn Bolt Action Pen Comparison Video
Lengths: Standard, Short, & Mini
Tactile Turn’s bolt action pens come in three lengths: Standard, Short, and Mini. The two main differences between the lengths are the pen refills they take and… the length.
Portability
The Standard, Short, and Mini are 5.6″, 5.1″, and 4.4″ respectively. I think all three lengths have their place. The Standard is the most similar in length to your typical pens like a Bic Round Stic or Cristal, but is a little long for pocket carry in my opinion. In my carry it sometimes jabbed into my leg when bending over or sitting. The Mini is the best for carrying in an EDC pouch and just taking up the least space, but might feel a bit short in the hand when writing if you have wide hands like me. The Short feels portable enough, while still offering enough purchase for comfortable writing.
Refill Compatibility
The Standard takes Pilot G2 sized refills, the Short takes Parker sized refills, and the Mini takes Pilot G2 Mini refills. You can refer to Tactile Turn’s refill guide HERE, though it’s not exhaustive (for example, the Standard also can use UniBall One refills, which are very nice). There are a good number of G2 sized refills out there that fit in the standard, and they are easy to find in places like Walmart and Target. The Parker size of the Short allows for a veritable plethora of compatible refills, though they might not be as easy to find in brick and mortar stores. On the other hand, the Mini seems to ONLY take Pilot G2 Mini refills. Technically, they’re “refills,” but you can’t seem to buy them on their own. You have to purchase full pens and discard the bodies (it’s not as sinister as it sounds, but I have to admit I don’t love the idea of wasting so much plastic). Honestly, you’re going to be able to find a refill you like in any of these sizes. There are plenty of options for the Standard and Short to find something that fits your writing style. The G2 Minis write nicely just like the full sized G2 , although I did have one leak (from carrying in cold temperatures, I am guessing). One big positive of the Short length for me is that it can take Fisher pressurized refills, using the adapter that they come with when purchased as refills. I have used Fisher Space Pens extensively, and like the versatility of their ink. So, while they all offer perfectly usable options when it comes to refills, I prefer the short length here also.
Widths: Normal & Slim
Tactile Turn actually offers three widths, as they also make a thick body, but I only have the normal and slim to compare currently. Aside from the obvious difference in thickness, the slim and normal widths come with different clips.
Ergonomics
The normal width is similar to a Sharpie, whereas the slim is closer to a standard pen or pencil (such as a Bic Cristal). I think many prefer the normal thickness, considering it easier to write with, and I notice a general preference for thicker barrels among pen enthusiasts. That said, the slim was created in response to “the biggest request we’ve gotten over the past few years”. I think I prefer the ergonomics of the slim for my personal writing grip, though I don’t have a problem with the normal width. The slim also fits better in an EDC pouch, if that’s your preferred carry method.
Clip; Bent vs Machined
The normal width comes with a classic bent clip, while the slim has a machined clip. The bent clip attaches with a ring that is screwed into the handle between the cap and the barrel, whereas the machined clip screws into the side of the barrel with Torx screws. Machined clips are a big thing in the knife world, but they’re not a make or break point for me. I do appreciate the extra work that goes into the machined clip, but I like the look of both. The bent clip seems to be easier to put into and pull out of the pocket, while still offering plenty retention. Overall, they’re both good clips; if I had to choose I would probably go with the bent, but it’s not something that I think needs to factor greatly into the choice between a normal or slim width pen.
Materials: Titanium, Bronze, & Copper
Tactile Turn offers pens in many different materials. From plain stainless steel to exotic zirconium, there’s sure to be something that catches your eye. I will be comparing three of their typical offerings: titanium, bronze, and copper. The main differences between these three materials are the hardness, weight, and oxidation potential.
Durability
Titanium is generally the hardest, and therefore the least likely to show scratches and dents, at a Brinell Hardness of around 300. (note: all these hardnesses depend on the specific alloy used, which I don’t think Tactile Turn publishes) Bronze is still relatively resistant at 75-220 BH, and I didn’t see any evidence of wear (aside from patina) in a few months of use. Copper is significantly softer, at around 35-90 BH. I noticed this softness clearly. My copper Mini developed some dings and scratches in the machining pretty quickly from carrying it next to other things. Also, the clip developed some play due to the copper deforming on either side of it from carrying it in my pocket. I was able to fix this with a simple application of super glue, but Will at Tactile Turn said they’re happy to make it right the few times this happens (I get the feeling they’re happy to make sure their customer is happy). They also offer a Lifetime Warranty on all their pens.
Weight
Titanium is the lightest of the three, at about half the density of both copper and bronze. I will say, though my research indicates copper and bronze have a very similar density (and therefore weight), the copper somehow feels heavier. The weight probably comes down to personal preference, as I doubt any of these pens will be heavy enough to make much difference on a daily basis. Maybe you’ll prefer the titanium if you’re on an ultralight multi day backwoods hike, or the copper if you like some heft. For me, I enjoy both and it just depends if you value lightness or heft.
Patina
Finally, the subject of patina. Basically, patina is the change that comes from aging. In the case of copper and bronze, it is oxidation. Both copper and bronze begin their patina by losing luster and taking on a darker tone. After enough time and exposure, copper will turn a shade of green and bronze a shade of brown or black. Many EDC enthusiasts, especially traditional knife connoisseurs, love patina for the way it shows age and wear. Honestly, I can take it or leave it whether on knives or pens. I think it can look good sometimes, and sometimes I’d rather the tool remain the way it was when I got it.
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All of Tactile Turn’s bolt action pens, no matter the material, come with their namesake machine finish. The finish is raised circles superbly applied across the whole pen body. The finish is easy to feel but somewhat difficult to see in pictures. Also, it’s so well machined that the seam between the body and tip disappears into the finish when they’re screwed together. All this immediately gives an impression of class and attention to detail that is wholly welcome in a luxury pen.
Final Thoughts
Pens are one of man’s most basic tools. To be able to write, to store information through language, is one of the main things that allows us humans to achieve amazing feats; from building societies to designing the computer I’m writing this on. So it makes sense that every day carry enthusiasts like myself prefer to have a durable, stylish, and practical pen as part of their tool set. Will at Tactile Turn understands that desire.
Tactile Turn pens are some of the most highly regarded on the market, and for good reason as they offer just those characteristics. Whichever combination of length, width, and material you go with you’re sure to get a quality writing instrument backed by a company that’s proud of their product. Have a favorite Tactile Turn configuration, or questions about bolt action pens? Send me a message or connect on Instagram or YouTube!
Finally, I want to extend my appreciation to Will Hodges. This comparison was made possible in large part by his generosity in providing the Short Bronze and Mini Copper.
Long Form Tactile Turn Bolt Action Pen Comparison Review Video
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I sincerely thank you for your time, support, and interest! Don’t forget to tell your friends about KnifeThoughts.com, subscribe via email, and share this article on social media. You can find Knife Thoughts on YouTube where I have hundreds of knife videos, as well as on Instagram and Facebook!
